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Patient Care Navigator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The Nurse Navigator provides clinical support, treatment access, education and coordination of patient-centered care to benefit the patient, family and multidisciplinary physicians while helping ...

As a Nurse Navigator, you will assist patients through education and review of treatment plans so ... nursing care and guidance to the cancer patient from referral through survivorship. * In ...

As a Nurse Navigator, you will assist patients through education and review of treatment plans so ... nursing care and guidance to the cancer patient from referral through survivorship. * In ...

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Patient Care Navigator information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$22

$35

How much do patient care navigator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient care navigator in Tennessee is $22.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Patient Care Navigator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Patient Care Navigator, you need a background in healthcare services, strong knowledge of care coordination, and often a bachelor's degree in a health-related field. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), care management software, and sometimes certifications like CHW (Community Health Worker) or patient navigation credentials are typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to communicate clearly with patients and healthcare teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure patients receive seamless, personalized care and support throughout their healthcare journey, improving outcomes and patient satisfaction.

How does a Patient Care Navigator typically support communication between patients and healthcare providers?

A Patient Care Navigator plays a vital role in ensuring clear and consistent communication between patients and their healthcare teams. They help patients understand their treatment plans, answer questions about procedures or appointments, and bridge any gaps in information. Navigators often coordinate with doctors, nurses, and administrative staff to relay patient concerns, schedule follow-ups, and clarify instructions. This collaborative approach helps reduce patient anxiety, minimizes misunderstandings, and improves overall care outcomes.

What are Patient Care Navigators?

Patient Care Navigators are healthcare professionals who guide patients through the complex healthcare system. They help patients understand their diagnosis, coordinate appointments, communicate with healthcare providers, and access resources such as financial assistance and support services. Their primary goal is to ensure that patients receive timely, appropriate care while reducing barriers and stress during the treatment process. Patient Care Navigators work in hospitals, clinics, and community settings, supporting patients with various health conditions.

What is the difference between Patient Care Navigator vs Patient Advocate?

AspectPatient Care NavigatorPatient Advocate
CredentialsTypically requires healthcare-related certifications or experienceOften requires certification or background in healthcare or social work
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, healthcare organizationsHospitals, community organizations, legal settings
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers focusing on patient coordinationPatient rights, legal support, healthcare advocacy
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding patient navigation roles in healthcareAssisting patients with rights and legal issues

While both roles support patients, Patient Care Navigators primarily coordinate care and facilitate communication within healthcare settings. Patient Advocates focus on representing patient rights and navigating legal or insurance issues. The roles often overlap but serve distinct functions in patient support and healthcare delivery.

What job categories do people searching Patient Care Navigator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Patient Care Navigator jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Patient Care Navigator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Patient Care Navigator job openings:
Infographic showing various Patient Care Navigator job openings in Tennessee as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 21% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 25% Physical, 25% Hybrid, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,988 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

NURSE NAVIGATOR

Covenant Health

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Nurse Navigator, Breast Center

Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift

Parkwest Overview:

Parkwest Medical Center, Covenant Health’s flagship facility in West Knoxville, combines world-class cardiac expertise with the warmth of home in serving a vibrant East Tennessee community. Since 1973, Parkwest has grown into the region’s largest hospital in the area, offering advanced services like an all-digital catheterization lab, comprehensive breast health, emergency, and critical care. It’s consistently ranked among Tennessee's top 10 hospitals by U.S.News & World Report and earns national recognition as a Top100 Heart Hospital, as well as an “A” safety grade from Leapfrog. As part of Covenant Health, the region’s largest employer, Parkwest Medical Center, marries cutting-edge technology with compassionate, community-centered care, earning accolades for cardiology, stroke, surgical excellence, and patient safety. 

To learn more about Parkwest Medical Center and our units, visit Covenant Health Parkwest Medical Center Opportunities.  

Position Summary:

The Nurse Navigator provides clinical support, treatment access, education and coordination of patient-centered care to benefit the patient, family and multidisciplinary physicians while helping achieve optimal outcomes for cancer patients and their families.


  • Serves as the essential link between patients and other care providers to provide resources and assistance with accessing clinical and supportive care services offered within the healthcare system and the community
  • Assists patients in understanding their diagnosis, treatment options, and the resources available, including educating eligible patients about appropriate Clinical Trials, genetic counseling or fertility preservation.
  • Educates patients about their disease, prescribed treatment, and side effects of treatment and how to manage them and assists them in making informed decisions.
  • Advocates on behalf of the patient.
  • Oversees and participates in all multidisciplinary cancer conferences.
  • Follows patients throughout the continuum of care for a time period defined by the department’s policies and procedures.
  • Utilizes Oncology nursing skills to obtain a medical history and plan the patient’s entry into the navigation program.
  • Aids in coordination of care between various healthcare providers and facilities, as needed.
  • Facilitates patient appointments, including those made with labs, diagnostic areas and specialty physicians.
  • Facilitates patient appointments, including those made with labs, diagnostic areas and specialty physicians.
  • Addresses tangible barriers to care and facilitates referrals to appropriate support services.
  • Evaluates and monitors quality metrics and reports findings at the quarterly Cancer Committee meetings.
  • Completes and disseminates Survivorship Care Plans to eligible patients being navigated who have completed cancer treatment. Discusses with patient upon completion of active, curative treatment and records in the patient medical record.
  • Works to develop and maintain physician rapport.
  • Demonstrates knowledge and competency in providing for age-specific needs of the population served as defined by each specialty area.
  • Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Education:           

None specified; however, must be sufficient to meet the standards for achievement of the below indicated license and/or certification as required by the issuing authority.

Minimum Experience:         

Minimum three (3) years oncology experience.

Licensure Requirements:    

Valid Tennessee RN license. Oncology certification preferred at time of hire or must be working toward obtaining the OCN within three (3) years of employment.